Today we’d like to introduce you to DAVINIA REED.
DAVINIA, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Missouri City native Davinia Reed is a transformational leader, cultural advocate, and community builder serving as the Chief Executive Officer of the Houston Museum of African American Culture (HMAAC). With a leadership style rooted in authenticity, faith, and service, Davinia has become a respected voice in Houston’s arts and culture landscape, leading HMAAC into a new era centered on community, culture, and connection. Her vision continues to guide the institution’s evolution from “a museum you visit” into “a museum where you belong.”
Raised in a single-parent household until the eighth grade, Davinia’s story is one of resilience, love, and determination. From an early age, she was driven by one goal: making her mother, Regina Molden, proud. The values instilled in her through her upbringing shaped the foundation of the woman and leader she is today. She shares a lifelong bond with her brother Thad, whom she affectionately calls her “first best friend,” a relationship grounded in loyalty, protection, and unconditional support.
A proud “church girl” at heart, Davinia credits her spiritual foundation as one of the cornerstones of her journey. Under the leadership of Pastor Richard Lott, she developed a deeper understanding of faith, purpose, and servant leadership, principles that continue to guide both her personal and professional life. She also credits her dad Dave with teaching her what being unapologetically herself looks like, her bonus father, Eric Molden, with teaching her the value of discipline, consistency, and a strong work ethic through his daily example.
At the center of Davinia’s life is family. She met her husband, Markus Reed, in middle school, and what began as a young connection grew into a lifelong partnership built on love, friendship, and mutual support. Together, they are the proud parents of two daughters, Makaela and Madisynne, who inspire her daily and remain her greatest motivation.
Professionally, Davinia brings more than a decade of leadership experience within HMAAC, having dedicated years of service to the institution before ascending to the role of CEO. From a student at Clark Atlanta University studying Business Administration, she is known for combining strategic vision with genuine community engagement or what CAU alumni would say “find a way or make a way”. Her leadership focuses on expanding access to African American art and culture, strengthening educational initiatives, cultivating meaningful partnerships, and ensuring that future generations see themselves reflected in positions of leadership, creativity, and influence.
Throughout her journey, Davinia has remained deeply grounded despite her growing influence. Whether mentoring students, advocating for African American museums, curating transformative cultural experiences, or speaking life into the next generation, she leads with grace, humility, and intention. While many know her today as a CEO and community leader, at her core she is still “Vinnie from Mo City”, a woman of faith, purpose, and perseverance who never forgot where she came from.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road hasn’t always been smooth. Most of my life my biological dad was incarcerated and learning to navigate life with him not being able to be present on many occasions was extremely difficult. However, my mother has always kept me rooted and grounded in the church. My faith has definitely carried me all these years. It has allowed me to make the right decision in the most crucial times in my life.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am the CEO of the Houston Museum of African American Culture.
I specialize in multiple things here are a few: Museum & Cultural Institution Leadership by leading and transforming cultural spaces with a strong focus on accessibility, representation, and community impact. Community Engagement & Relationship Building by creating authentic connections between organizations and the communities they serve, ensuring people feel seen, welcomed, and represented.
African American Arts & Cultural Advocacy by championing Black artists, Black stories, and culturally relevant programming that preserves history while elevating contemporary voices.
I’m most proud of the museum “Evolving From A Museum You Visit Into A Museum Where You Belong”
What sets me apart from others is I know my purpose and I believe in reaching back to help pull others up. God didn’t bless me to keep the tools and knowledge I have access to myself. It is my duty to pass my knowledge to those are following behind me.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
The Houston Museum of African American Culture is a non-profit museum that is free Wednesday – Saturday from 11am – 6pm. We welcome ALL people, because we are “Evolving From A Museum You Visit Into A Museum Where You Belong”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hmaac.org
- Instagram: dreed_ceo
- Facebook: Houston Museum of African American Culture
- LinkedIn: Houston Museum of African American Culture
- Youtube: Houston Museum of African American Culture
